The Coalition for the Advancement of Children’s Mental Health (CACMH) is a collaboration of over 30 metro Omaha agencies that work to promote the development of a comprehensive, coordinated system of care addressing the social and emotional needs of young children and their families. Representatives of the Coalition include area school districts, universities, public health organizations, hospitals, child care facilities, foster care and adoption programs, mental health service providers, government officials, advocacy organizations, and private and community foundations

Focusing on the needs of children from birth to age five as well as their families, the Coalition announces the unveiling of a white paper outlining issues affecting the youngest members of our communities.

Seeking to answer the question, “What does it take for children to grow up happy, productive, and prepared for adult, family, and community life?”, the paper helps define early childhood mental health along with identifying challenges for parents, providing facts for professionals, and citing opportunities available to meet community needs.

According to a January 2001 report from the U.S. Surgeon General, one in five children (21 percent) will experience a behavioral health problem. In the two-county area of Douglas and Sarpy counties, this equates to 11,200 young children having a diagnosable behavioral health problem that hinders their development.

By identifying problems early and taking the appropriate steps to address such issues, the CACMH works to help families achieve a better outcome.

Click here to download a copy of the white paper

For additional information or to learn more about CACMH efforts please contact Alice Drake, Manager of Youth Services, Region 6 Behavioral Healthcare, at (402) 444-4989 or by email at adrake@regionsix.com.